Supporting Business

“Mom & pop stores are not about something small; they are about something big. Ninety percent of all U.S. businesses are family owned or controlled. They are important not only for the food, drink, clothing, and tools they sell us, but also for providing us with intellectual stimulation, social interaction, and connection to our communities. We must have mom & pop stores because we are social animals. We crave to be part of the marketplace. ” 
― Robert Spector, The Mom & Pop Store: How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy Are Surviving and Thriving

This week I met a couple who had moved to Southern Utah with the hope of relocating their successful business to a warmer climate.  This conversation made me wonder how often the City loses the opportunity to gain a solid business partner due to poor communication or because of lack of information for the business owner.

While serving as an alternate member of the Planning Commission, I have often heard expressed the frustration that the City is falling behind in its response to development within the City.  The Planning Commission has been working on a zoning map for the SR 9/SR 17 corridor.  This process includes outlining specific areas for development (see map below) and then identifying the types of businesses the Commission feels would work best in those areas.  This is a process of discussion where not only are types of businesses outlined, but also definitions of businesses types need to be clarified.  When the Planning Commission completes this process, the City should have a clearer vision of what its business districts will look like, providing clustering of compatible businesses and allowing for a walkable and welcoming environment for residents and tourists.

In addition to developing a vision for development,  I would like to see a strengthening of our Economic Development Committee.  Currently the City's website contains a series of videos developed to promote La Verkin and attract business to the City.  (You can view these videos by clicking HERE.)  While these videos are well done, they need to be updated.

Many years ago, I asked for information I could provide to my sister that she could use to present to her management why they should locate a franchise in La Verkin.  At that time, there was no such packet of information available.  I have casually asked about it a few times since, but have never been provided with any information.  In order to attract businesses to the community, the City needs to be prepared with this information.  The City can also use this information to identify businesses that would be most compatible with its vision for development and then work to recruit those businesses to locate in our community.

But just as important as bringing in new business, the City can provide support to its residents as they work to develop and implement new businesses or expand existing businesses within the community.  I was very impressed with the resources available through the Dixie Business Alliance.  This organization is a great resource for communities and individuals in Washington County helping prospective businesses with available properties throughout the county and support services for entrepreneurs.  The City should strive to maintain a partnership with the DBA, including providing access and information of its resources for current and prospective business owners.

Most importantly to me, I feel the City should promote its local businesses.  Each year as I have sent a mailing regarding the 4th of July activities to the City's licensed businesses, I have been amazed at the variety of businesses we have in the City.  I would like to see more promoting of these businesses through the use of a business spotlight in the City newsletter to promotions on the City's Facebook page and website.

La Verkin was recently recognized as a "Utah Governor's Business Friendly Community".  This is a positive step and one that needs to be built upon.